1999 Suzuki Vitara Logo
Posted on Feb 01, 2009
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96 suzuki vitara - radiator empties but no visible leak

96 suzuki vitara 6 cyl; auto, 2.0L - radiator empties but no visible water leak

after short drive, radiator will empty - no visible leak.

recently replaced:
6 coils
thermostat

  • nls1996 Feb 01, 2009

    Thanks, however: have just been told that while driving, can see leak from car behind. But when stopped no leak visable.



    Coolant levels drop slightly, but possibly because have been cautious of not wanting to overheat.



    Oil colour and levels all fine.



    Anymore suggestions?

  • nls1996 Feb 01, 2009

    While the radiator cap is off and car running, the water is bubbling out the top. You can also see collant (green) in this. Could this possibly relate to as you suggested earlier "not circulating and vapor locked (air pocket)" ???

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  • Expert 150 Answers
  • Posted on Feb 01, 2009
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Check the passanger side floor board for moisture this could indicate a bad heater core. Then I would check the engine oil and make sure its not milky looking (head gasket). make sure when you fill it let it run with the cap open with you looking into the cap to be sure is circulating and not vapor locked (air pocket)
hope this helps

  • Anonymous Feb 01, 2009

    I would with the benifit of flashlight check the hoses upper and lower and look at the base of the water pump for seepage. Japanese cars also have a tendancy to leak at the radiator seams after 100k. You said you changed the thermostat. When you change a pressurized component it can cause other pressurized components to fail. If you can't find it still check the system with a pressure tester. Hope this helps

  • Anonymous Feb 01, 2009

    I am still leaning towards the issue being a hose, water pump, or possibly the new t-stat gasket bound or was torqued incorrectly.

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